Arc flash is a fairly common hazard when working with electricity. It can cause serious injuries and can even be fatal. Thankfully, severe consequences can be avoided if one takes the proper precautions. CHARNAUD® answers some of the most frequently asked questions about arc flash
FAQ 1: What Is Arc Flash?
Arc flash is an electrical explosion that occurs due to short circuits or other faults in phase-to-ground or phase-to-phase conductors. It causes electrical equipment to explode, resulting in an arc-plasma fireball. The blast produces intense heat, fire, bright light, pressure waves, molten debris and shrapnel. The more you know about arc flash, the better prepared you will be for it.
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FAQ 2: What Determines How Intense An Arc Flash Will Be?
The severity and intensity of an arc flash depends on a number of conditions, including system voltage, current magnitude, distance from the event and duration of the arc.
FAQ 3: Is Arc Flash Only A Risk With High Voltages?
The belief that arc flash is only a problem when working with high voltages is a dangerous misconception. The truth is that most arc flash accidents occur with low voltage equipment. Category 3 or 4 arc flashes are not uncommon in low voltage systems.
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FAQ 4: What Are The Main Causes Of Arc Flashes?
There are several possible causes of arc flash, most of which are attributable to preventable human error. Improper tools, the wrong equipment, un-maintained and old switchgear and motor control centres, bad work techniques and poor safety practices are all potential causes.
FAQ 5: What Type Of Injuries Can Occur As A Result Of Arc Flash?
3rd degree Burns, concussions, collapsed lungs, hearing loss, various cuts, abrasions and other injuries resulting from shrapnel impact, as well as broken bones, are all common injuries associated with arc flashes. Death can also occur in cases where the blast is particularly severe.
FAQ 6: What Safety Equipment Should Be Used to Protect Against Arc Flash
Electrical workers should use protective wear made from certified, comfortable, permanently flame-resistant material to protect them from head to toe against the possible effects of an arc flash. CHARNAUD®’s SURVIVE-ARC® range is specifically designed for this purpose. The range consists of shirts, coveralls, jackets, gloves, boots and more – all designed to guard electrical workers against the heat, shrapnel and blasts associated with arc flash.
Protect Your Staff Against Arc Flash With CHARNAUD® PPE
CHARNAUD® is a supplier of quality PPE for a variety of professions. Contact us for advice on how to protect your staff against arc flash and for all the relevant safety gear you will need.
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